The antonym for the word "re-publics" would be "monarchies" or "empires" which are forms of government where power is centralized in a single individual or family. Unlike republics, monarchies can have an hereditary succession where the next monarch is typically determined by lineage, birthright and tradition. Empires, on the other hand, are characterized by a centralized authority that extends its influence over a vast territory, often through military power, conquest, and colonization. Republics, by contrast, are forms of government where power is derived from the people, and officials are elected or appointed to represent their interests.